Email I sent to Disney

[Gumbo4x4]

I think the "idea" of being able to pre schedule a FP sounds great on paper. Unfortunately, in practice, that option now makes all the previous options null and void. And that sucks.

 

[AmyB2006]

I don't think the OP is trying to skip lines but the GAC did provide more accomodations for those who need them. I for one would also buy an express pass if available. My DH has issues with stamina and although he uses a ECV he cannot stand more than 2 hrs in the parks each day before needing to rest.

I think Hub is trying to say, that the way it's worded, makes it look that way. I don't think OP is trying to "skip lines" either. But I can see how from a CM point of view, it would appear to be that way.

 

[Gumbo4x4]

Great email! Ditto !!!! Three FP's all day is absurd. And not being able to use FP's in multiple parks in one day is also absurd. Just returned from our 2nd vacation to WDW and had an incredible time. BUT, I strongly recommend FP's are increased to at least 5 per day with the ability to use in multiple parks daily. It's a no-brainier. OR, simply continue to give KTTW cards with FP ability as well as the 3 magic bands FP+ options.

There needs to be a limit on the number of FPs you can reserve ahead if time IMO (and maybe 3 is too MANY). But, to limit the # you can pull on the fly seems wrong.

 

[AmyB2006]

I think the "idea" of being able to pre schedule a FP sounds great on paper. Unfortunately, in practice, that option now makes all the previous options null and void. And that sucks.

See I loved the "idea" of it as well. In October it worked great for us. I only pulled one paper FP with my AP the entire trip. We had our 3 scheduled per day. But once the tiers came into effect... I'm not such a fan anymore. I still like the idea, and I hope this is only temporary. But something tells me it's not.

 

[TheRustyScupper]

. . . 2.Limiting guests to only 3 Fastpasses per day. This is not NEARLY enough, especially in the Magic Kingdom . . .

1) I do not understand why "it is not NEARLY enough . . "
2) What should it be?
3) Passes for handicapped individuals allow ACCESS to attractions.
4) They do not allow the privilege of more/extra rides per day.
5) Everyone should have the same level of access frequency to rides.
6) Handicap or no handicap.

7) Please help me understand further.

 

[aaarcher86]

I so till on the fence. I'm hoping they offer up some tweaks to the FP+ system. At the very least, allow for 3 in each park per day for hopping purposes.

DH and I have a 1 day hopper after a cruise in Feb. I was thrilled to get FP+ for SM, BTMMR, and HM between 9-12p since we wanted to head over to Epcot by early afternoon. It really worked out well versus wondering how long the lines are or running for FP.

We aren't taking the kids back until October so we've got some time to see how this progresses. We can make it work with what it is currently, but I think they can make it a bit better without much detriment.

 

[The Hub]

I think it's a combination of them being overwhelmed with so much negativity (well deserved on their part) in regards to FP+ and the fact that clearly they honestly couldn't give a crap what anyone thinks anymore.

MyMagic+ is still in testing and feedback is very important to us. We have tested more than three FastPasses in one day. Remember the bonus FastPass in Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom? Park hopping has been tested as well, hence the reason it appears on your surveys. Just because Disney doesn't broadcast everything, it doesn't mean it isn't being looked at. MagicBands/MyMagic+ has been in development for over five years now. For those guests that are at Pop or All Stars, nearly every attraction will now offer you a FastPass keycard, simply because this is testing. For what its worth, by still offering legacy FastPass, we don't have the ride capacity at this time to offer more than 3.

Also, when you're providing feedback to Guest Relations, don't say you aren't going to come back to Disney. They won't take you seriously. When you say that, the second they step backstage, they start laughing about it in the break rooms with the other Cast Members. We have our fair share in my location. If a guest lets us know they are upset, we issue a No Strings FastPass at the minimum. However, playing the "I'm not coming back" game, will simply make us say "have a magical day" and joke about it with other Cast Members as soon as you walk away. It is true, this happens, we all do it, even onstage with guests around. If you pay attention to Cast Members when they're talking at a greeter position or even just out and about, you will hear a lot of guest situations from that day. Even the coordinators and area leaders do it.

Not looking to do so for any other reason than if we want to experience everything and make the trip worth it, we need it. I'm simply saying if they're not going to offer it, I would be willing to pay for it. We pay for it at other parks. I have no problem doing it at Disney.

Again, the Disability Access Service is not your only option. Unless you are clear of what your needs are, and Guest Relations feels that you cannot experience the parks without these options, you will not be able to receive them. Going in with a diagnosis won't do anything. They don't care what your diagnosis is, nor should they. They're not doctors. They are there to provide assistance to guests in many different ways. They see thousands of guests, they have issued hundreds of thousands of GAC and DAS cards. They're pretty good at reading what a guest needs from what they say they need, even if the guests themselves don't know what they need. Every Cast Member can do that, we anticipate guest questions from how they act and answer them before they even ask.

 

[FLchick415]

I'm honestly neither here nor there in regards to FP+ (I live in FL and am able to make trips much more often than people out of state, so riding everything in one trip just isn't a huge deal to me) but I do think the idea of tiers is not such a good one. It makes me sad to see that this whole system has been "make it or break it" for so many people, but I understand the frustration.

 

[nkereina]

DH and I have a 1 day hopper after a cruise in Feb. I was thrilled to get FP+ for SM, BTMMR, and HM between 9-12p since we wanted to head over to Epcot by early afternoon. It really worked out well versus wondering how long the lines are or running for FP.

Not to derail OP's thread, but wouldn't it make more sense to utilize FP+ for Epcot since you will be there during the busiest part of the day? We just used FP+ for 10 days, albeit during a slow time, but found it made the most sense to use it during the afternoon/early evening when stand by was at their longest. Just a thought.

 

[Tribe]

I have not tried to do the math behind how many fastpasses, tiering, etc. but there has to be a limit. Consider that with the new system everybody will be selecting fastpasses (many did not know about of use fp-) and if fastpasses per day were to increase to 5, 6, 8, 10....that is essentially equating to ZERO fastpasses. The fastpass lines will get longer and longer and overtake the standby lines. So I may agree with you that 3 fastpasses may be a little short at magic kingdom but you realize there can't be that much more. Also the tiering may have to be necessary too. Roughly 30,000 people visit a single Disney park per day. Without tiering maybe 20,000 would all choose Soarin and Test Track. Again, fastpass lines would be huge and no longer fastpass. I believe we have to consider this reality when we complain about tiering and only 3 fastpasses.

 

[Flametamr]

For what its worth, the Disability Access Service is not your only option. Guest Relations does offer further accommodations. However, these are given based solely on your needs and will never be given based on your diagnosis. I, obviously, will not share information on what these accommodations are in order to prevent abuse of a program designed to provide special assistance to those in need (and preventing abuse at the exact same time,) but there are more options. You just need to further explain what needs you require at Guest Relations.

Seeing the difference between a Guest Assistance Card and a Disability Access Service card in use is amazing. Back to your email, yes you will get a response around the timeframe they said they would respond to you. However, they may not inform you about other options and other special accommodations, as from a cast point of view, it looks like you are trying to skip waiting in line by mentioning other options that offer an "express" pass for a fee.

We spent 8 days in Disney World during Halloween and I can tell you that we were all lied to. Disney will not make accommodations for you regardless of what they say. We have used the GAC for years with my daughter and the new system is total trash. Anytime I asked for assistance we were denied and basically accused of wanting FOL passes. There are no longer alternate waiting areas or entrances. One instance in particular at Epcot we tried to let the kids ride Test Track one last time before we left. We had gotten fast passes just for this. Well we missed our Magic Fast Pass time by a few minutes and asked if we could just go on in and were denied. When I showed our GAC the CM gave me a return time of 40 minutes and basically refused to call a manager. She actually said we don't have FOL passes anymore.

I promptly went to guest services and asked for the Park Director. He finally came and said the CM was wrong and he would call the Test Track Manager and get us right in. He later returned and informed me he was wrong to tell me that. That they would not escort us in to ride. We would be required to wait in standby and suffer thru the entire preshow just to ride. I had reservations for dinner with just my wife so we couldn't wait that long and I was forced to disappoint my kids and leave.

I politely told him GAC was trash now and Disney might as well scrap the whole system. He made excuses about it being new and he was sure more changes were coming. So DO NOT count on any accommodations. You will be disappointed.

 

[aaarcher86]

Not to derail OP's thread, but wouldn't it make more sense to utilize FP+ for Epcot since you will be there during the busiest part of the day? We just used FP+ for 10 days, albeit during a slow time, but found it made the most sense to use it during the afternoon/early evening when stand by was at their longest. Just a thought.

We didn't really care about the rides in Epcot, so no. Not for us. We will be enjoying WS.

 

[Gumbo4x4]

I have not tried to do the math behind how many fastpasses, tiering, etc. but there has to be a limit. Consider that with the new system everybody will be selecting fastpasses (many did not know about of use fp-) and if fastpasses per day were to increase to 5, 6, 8, 10....that is essentially equating to ZERO fastpasses. The fastpass lines will get longer and longer and overtake the standby lines. So I may agree with you that 3 fastpasses may be a little short at magic kingdom but you realize there can't be that much more. Also the tiering may have to be necessary too. Roughly 30,000 people visit a single Disney park per day. Without tiering maybe 20,000 would all choose Soarin and Test Track. Again, fastpass lines would be huge and no longer fastpass. I believe we have to consider this reality when we complain about tiering and only 3 fastpasses.

All fair points, and I don't know what the solution is.

 

[Flametamr]

I don't want to get into an argument here but want to add this. It angers me when someone asks for any consideration they get accused of wanting Front Of the Line passes. It happened several times during my trip and anytime someone complains here the same thing is said.

In my case at Test Track I had already waited my time VIA Magic Band Fast Passes. I scheduled one of our three passes specifically to ride Test Track last before we left. We didn't have Hopper tickets and would not be returning this trip to Epcot. So pleased don't go there. I have a legitimately and obviously handicapped daughter. We go to Disney because that is her happy place. The little bit of considerations we got before helped us to tour easier. Have you ever pushed a wheel chair all day at Disney ? Have you pushed a wheel chair up thru Space Mountain ? The current GAC system does not make anything easier. It only adds more waiting and scheduling to your already stressful day. I for one will not be returning to Disney until changes for the better are made.

 

[happymommy]

To the OP:

I have to say that I am right there with you! My kids and I enjoyed 15 nights last year in August, and we haven't been back yet. We used the GAC for my son to wait sometimes on a bench for a ride, but now I don't think he would get any benefit from the new system. I had been thinking about an on site trip for just myself and my daughter over her spring break, but the new fastpass system sounds so restrictive and a bit confusing too. We always park hop, and don't really plan at all anymore. We never can spend a whole day at MK - so I have no idea why you can't choose a FP+ for two different parks in one day! The whole reason I thought about a Disney resort was to have convenience of FP+, but now it actually sounds like a total waste.

I've been well over 20 times, and back before fastpass existed I made our own touring plans and never waited long in lines at all. We just did the typical - zig while others zag. Fastpass was fine then, but now I am not likely returning for a long time. After spending tens of thousands over the years at Disney, it's too bad for them.

 

[StitchesGr8Fan]

Very well written.

To the PP saying TheHub was lied to: TheHub actually works at Disney and often provides information that is not usually available to the public, or isn't available yet.

In your Test Track example, you missed your FP+ window so they offered you a DAS return time. Sounds like you wanted them to make an exception and let you on the ride right away because the DAS time conflicted with your ADR. Why don't the FP return windows and DAS return times apply to your family?

 

[sonofanarchy]

1) I do not understand why "it is not NEARLY enough . . "
2) What should it be?
3) Passes for handicapped individuals allow ACCESS to attractions.
4) They do not allow the privilege of more/extra rides per day.
5) Everyone should have the same level of access frequency to rides.
6) Handicap or no handicap.

7) Please help me understand further.

1) Because there are too many attractions in the Magic Kingdom that require standing in long lines. The less FP's available, the less attractions one can see.
2) I don't know the exact answer. I would say probably 6. I'd prefer they get rid of FP+ all together and stick with the original system.
3) The GAC, right or wrong, was allowing for faster access. There are those that can't spend all day in the parks due to medical issues. The GAC was a tremendous help for those.
4) It did, again, right or wrong.
5) Why
6) Do you insist on numbering everything the way you do?

7) It's extremely weird.

 

[ktlm]

I have not tried to do the math behind how many fastpasses, tiering, etc. but there has to be a limit. Consider that with the new system everybody will be selecting fastpasses (many did not know about of use fp-) and if fastpasses per day were to increase to 5, 6, 8, 10....that is essentially equating to ZERO fastpasses. The fastpass lines will get longer and longer and overtake the standby lines. So I may agree with you that 3 fastpasses may be a little short at magic kingdom but you realize there can't be that much more. Also the tiering may have to be necessary too. Roughly 30,000 people visit a single Disney park per day. Without tiering maybe 20,000 would all choose Soarin and Test Track. Again, fastpass lines would be huge and no longer fastpass. I believe we have to consider this reality when we complain about tiering and only 3 fastpasses.

The problem with tiering is essentially they are limiting you to 1 FP a day. The second tier is nothing you would ever normally need or get a FP for, unless it was Christmas week or spring break. The FP+ system and picking FP in advance of your day may be flawed and unworkable because they can't work it without a 3 limit or tiers, but the tiers are taking a huge benefit away, as does FP+ in general. Basically- they are removing the FP system from existence except for giving you 1 a day, and making you think they are giving you something else by letting you jump to the front of a line that is rarely more than 5 or 10 minutes. I've never waited more than 10 minutes for anything in the 2nd tiers of DHS or EPCOT---- well, maybe 20 minutes for the great movie ride once. I would never get a FP for any of those things.


Maybe if they could get the software to work like FP- in the parks, where you can pick 1 or 2 ahead of your trip, and then on that day, it runs where you can pick an extra 1, once you enter the park, then after you use that or wait a specified period of time, can get another etc. Then it might actually be a workable system that has a benefit instead of a detriment.

 

[sonofanarchy]

Also, when you're providing feedback to Guest Relations, don't say you aren't going to come back to Disney. They won't take you seriously. When you say that, the second they step backstage, they start laughing about it in the break rooms with the other Cast Members. We have our fair share in my location. If a guest lets us know they are upset, we issue a No Strings FastPass at the minimum. However, playing the "I'm not coming back" game, will simply make us say "have a magical day" and joke about it with other Cast Members as soon as you walk away. It is true, this happens, we all do it, even onstage with guests around. If you pay attention to Cast Members when they're talking at a greeter position or even just out and about, you will hear a lot of guest situations from that day. Even the coordinators and area leaders do it.

That's professional.

It's not a "game". I've spent hundreds of thousands of dollars at Disney over the years. Glad you're laughing about it.

Why would I NOT say we aren't coming back? Should I say "The new system sucks, but no worries, we'll be back!" I'm not cursing Disney out or saying how horrible they are. In fact, quite the opposite. I'm just being honest.

 

[1girln3boys]

The problem with tiering is essentially they are limiting you to 1 FP a day. The second tier is nothing you would ever normally need or get a FP for, unless it was Christmas week or spring break. The FP+ system and picking FP in advance of your day may be flawed and unworkable because they can't work it without a 3 limit or tiers, but the tiers are taking a huge benefit away, as does FP+ in general. Basically- they are removing the FP system from existence except for giving you 1 a day, and making you think they are giving you something else by letting you jump to the front of a line that is rarely more than 5 or 10 minutes. I've never waited more than 10 minutes for anything in the 2nd tiers of DHS or EPCOT---- well, maybe 20 minutes for the great movie ride once. I would never get a FP for any of those things. Maybe if they could get the software to work like FP- in the parks, where you can pick 1 or 2 ahead of your trip, and then on that day, it runs where you can pick an extra 1, once you enter the park, then after you use that or wait a specified period of time, can get another etc. Then it might actually be a workable system that has a benefit instead of a detriment.

This is the plan I like. Let us pick 1 or 2 ahead of time. Then let us use FP+ like regular FP in the parks the day of. Especially if we plan on park hopping.